Only in the last 5 years have I had a HF near me. I hit it 2 to 4 times a month. The quality or lack of it is easier to determine in person.
I'm very impressed with how tools hold up. Bought two of their workbenches.

I shop there occasionally, but try to get out before my friends discover me inside due to the ridicule.

I just replaced a watch battery using a HF kit that cost less than one replacement fee. MY HF belt sander stripped 300 feet 0f wooden railing ijn less than 30 minutes. I can't afford to give up that ridicule.

I hear that cr*p from others all the time. I love hearing them tell me about the $100 torque wrenches then whip out my $20 HF wrench. we check the same nut's torque and guess what... the HF has the exact same reading as the wrenches that costs five times more.